Fifty adolescent girls from two shelter homes in Jos have received training on menstrual health and hygiene management as part of efforts to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly menstrual practices.
The initiative, organized by IYALI Hope Community Centre in partnership with A Child’s Hope Foundation, was conducted at the Jos Christian Refuge for Children Foundation (JCRFCF) and the Simiji Girl-Child Foundation.
The training provided participants with practical knowledge and hands-on skills in the production, use, and proper maintenance of reusable menstrual pads. Organizers said the programme was designed to improve menstrual hygiene awareness while equipping vulnerable girls with sustainable alternatives to disposable sanitary products.
To support learning and engagement, each participant received a specially developed menstrual hygiene manual tailored to the needs of adolescent girls. At the conclusion of the programme, the girls were also provided with reusable menstrual pad kits and storage bags.
Speaking during the training, Lead Facilitator Oluwaseyi Anreti Adeolowu highlighted the environmental benefits of adopting reusable menstrual products, emphasizing the growing need for sustainable solutions.
She noted that disposable sanitary pads contribute significantly to environmental pollution due to the large volume of waste they generate. According to her, the widespread use of eco-friendly menstrual products can help reduce waste, mitigate environmental degradation, and lessen the burden on drainage systems.
Also speaking, Assistant Director of Jos Christian Refuge for Children Foundation, Mrs. Mary Choji, commended the organizers for the initiative and its positive impact on the beneficiaries.
She said the training had enhanced the girls’ understanding of menstrual hygiene management while providing them with valuable skills in producing reusable menstrual pads. She added that the donated reusable pads would enable the children to experience the benefits of environmentally sustainable menstrual products.
Organizers explained that the programme forms part of broader efforts to advance menstrual health education, encourage sustainable environmental practices, and empower adolescent girls with essential life skills that support their health, dignity, and well-being.